Europe is shaking off its individualistic image and catching up with the times. With new attitudes and leaderships, commitments to green initiatives and a relaxed macroeconomy policy, the continent has fund managers and switched-on investors paying attention. The European markets have weathered severe storms over the decades, and cyclicals have continued to carry markets across the region. Automakers, banks, travel, leisure, oil and gas have shown robust results based on increased optimism, including the prospect of faster than expected global economic recovery. Staying ahead of the curve is the key to seeing success in cyclicals. Investors adding the best picks of these companies to their portfolios will have the benefit of diversification as well as strong returns while markets remain buoyant.